Zoe, Author at DIY Wedding Tips

Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund: Best Honeymoon Registry Websites

Today, we’re going to be comparing Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund and looking at Traveler’s Joy and Honeyfund alternatives. Traditional registries were great for couples just starting out decades ago. But most of us having weddings now are already living together and don’t need much for our homes. In recent years, it’s become increasingly popular to ask wedding guests to help with honeymoon costs.

It’s worth noting that you may still want to make a small list of traditional gifts, as some guests will prefer to buy a physical gift. However, the choice is entirely yours, and how comfortable you feel asking for monetary help.

So you’ve decided to ask for help towards your honeymoon – which sites should you use? Let’s compare some of the best choices available.

What Is A Honeymoon Registry?

A honeymoon registry is usually online and is set up to offer guests of the wedding a chance to help financially with the happy couple’s honeymoon. This is usually in place of a traditional gift registry. Although, often couples will set up a small gift list for any guests who prefer physical gifts.

Honeymoon Registry Choices

Let’s compare some of the key features from some of the most popular choices on offer for honeymoon registry websites.

Traveler’s Joy

Traveler’s Joy was of the first honeymoon registry websites to appear and they’ve been around since 2004. They’re currently one of the most popular choices in the US! It’s modern and easy to use, so it isn’t hard to see why it’s one of the more preferable choices on offer.

While the design choices are quite limited on Traveler’s Joy, it’s free to set up your account. All gift redemptions in the US are free, but using credit will incur a 2.95% additional fee. It’s simple to use, mobile-friendly and you’ll be able to make your contribution to any honeymoon in no time at all.

It’s important to note that contributions over $1000 will need to be verified by Traveler’s Joy.

You can find out more about Traveler’s Joy and find answers to any burning questions you may have here.

Honeyfund

Launching in 2003, Honeyfund is another honeymoon registry website that has been around for a while! Honeyfund is a little more unique than most other registry websites because it’s not just for weddings. You can even contribute towards someone’s home, charities, or travel.

You can choose a free or paid-for account. When paying for an account, you’re paying for the design and to add photos, etc. It’s a one-off payment of $39.99. Depending on country and payment method, fees range from 2.8% – 3.95% plus $0.30. Payment options available for guests are WePay and PayPal.

One of the perks of Honeyfund is that there is live chat available. This means that if you have any queries or issues to raise – it’s easy to get sorted into time at all.

Hitchd

One of the newer honeymoon registry websites is Hitchd. It’s quickly becoming a popular choice for newly married couples for a few reasons. The main reason being – there is just a one-time fee, rather than guests (or the couple) having to take a hit from every contribution.

It’s super affordable and there’s a range of options to choose from including:

£69 – this enables 25 individual contributions
£99 – this enables 50 individual contributions
£169 – this enables unlimited contributions

They also offer a free trial so you can explore the website before making a commitment. It’s available in a staggering 25 countries, so wherever you are in the world, it’s easy to set up your honeymoon fund.

Hitchd is also becoming increasingly popular because it accepts a range of payments including, PayPal, Venmo, CashApp, Bank Transfer, and Credit/Debit Cards. Not only that, but it has over 1 million photos to use to make your website as beautiful and aesthetically pleasing as possible.

Zola

Another popular choice is Zola. Zola is another website that has been around for a while, and one you may be familiar with. Zola enables the couple themselves to pay for the processing fees, rather than the guests – which is a great option if you’re the one contributing to the honeymoon.

The processing fee is 2.5% with no hidden fees, which is reasonably low compared to some of the other options we’ve taken a look at today.

However, this website isn’t one of the most mobile-friendly options. Plus, as it’s predominantly a physical gift registry, it’s easy to veer away from the task at hand. There are constant ads for invites, checklists, etc. (which are other services they offer), so it can become a little confusing.

Other Honeymoon Registry Websites

The options we’ve seen today are just a few of what’s on offer. Some other popular choices include Blueprint, Honeymoon Wishes, Wanderable, and Thankful Registry. Be sure to shop around before making any final decisions, as what works for one couple may not work for you.

Or you may want to go old school and simply accept cash. This is what I did for my honeymoon fund and I found it the easiest way – however, it probably wasn’t the safest! But it all depends on the size and vibe of your wedding; always do what is best for you.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to see the differences between Traveler’s Joy vs Honeyfund and a range of other options you may like to choose too. Ultimately, they all do the same job and if you’re looking for my personal recommendation, I would now opt for Hitchd. But the choice is entirely up to you and what your needs are!

Did you use a honeymoon registry website for your wedding? Or do you plan to? Let me know which company you chose and what your experiences have been like. Whether positive or negative, I would love to hear them! So please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below. You may be helping out future couples with their own wedding.

Top 10 Affordable Destination Weddings In The US

Today, we’re going to be looking at affordable destination weddings in the US. Weddings are one of the most expensive events that’ll happen throughout your life. And some people’s budgets are much tighter than others – I know mine was! So if you’re looking for an affordable destination wedding in the US – look no further!

Did you know that the average wedding costs just over $30,000?! But never fear – we’ll be diving straight into the top 10 places cheap places to get married within the USA!

What Is A Destination Wedding?

Before we begin, let’s go over what a destination wedding is. A destination wedding is a ceremony that takes place not in your hometown. It will require some form of travel for the couple themselves and wedding guests.

Cheap Destination Weddings USA

This is the part you’re likely here for! If you need help, check out these places for destination weddings in the US – at a fraction of the price of other states!

Nashville, Tennessee

If the price is the most important aspect for you, Nashville is the place for you! Generally speaking, this is the cheapest place to have your wedding. Whether you’re wanting to get married in nature, a gorgeous hotel, or even a vineyard – Nashville has it all. It’s also a great destination wedding if either half of the happy couple are country music lovers. A November wedding here would be perfect.

Omaha, Nebraska

Wedding costs usually reflect how much local housing costs, so it may be the largest city in Nebraska, but the cost of living is well below the average – so it’s a great place for your affordable wedding! It hosts a huge range of venues, so whether you’re looking for anything from a ballroom to a barn, you’ll be able to find it at a reasonable price in Omaha. You can even have your wedding in a museum!

Scottsdale, Arizona

If good weather is something that’s important to you, you may want to consider Arizona – the state where the sun (mostly) shines. Whether you’re wanting to get married on a golf course or a ranch, it’s almost certain the sun will be shining on your special day.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Somewhere I’m desperate to visit in the US is New Orleans – and it just so happens to be one of the most affordable cities to have your wedding. If you’re looking for a quirky wedding full of charm or set in a place brimming with history, New Orleans is a great choice. It’s always buzzing, but also has some stunning locations for your wedding.

Tampa, Florida

Another town brimming with history and character is Tampa. This is also perfect if you’re a thrill-seeker and want to have your wedding at a theme park. Busch Gardens is one of my favorite places in the world – what better place to have your ceremony?! Of course, Tampa has lots of far more conventional choices too.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for somewhere modern, trendy but still affordable – Pittsburgh is the place for you. It’s full of one-of-a-kind venues that will definitely leave a lasting impression on you (and your guests). Again, there’s a huge range of venues to choose from, for every taste.

Weatherford, Texas

Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of weddings, but Weatherford is a great place for your wedding. If you’re looking for a barn wedding with outdoor cooking alongside peace and serenity, look no further!

Huntington Beach, California

If you’re looking for a beach wedding that will take your breath away – of course, California is the place to go. And Huntington Beach is the perfect backdrop. While a wedding on the beach is the most popular choice, there are plenty of other affordable options to choose from. And a great place to get a quick surf or two in before or after the wedding.

West Orange, New Jersey

Whatever venue you’re in search of, West Orange likely has it – and at an affordable price too. There are a few places to choose from including Montclair Golf Club and Highlawn Pavillion. It’s a tranquil place that’s ideal for a wedding.

Blue Heron Lake, Ohio

A beautiful place for your wedding is Blue Heron Lake. If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options here. And a sunset boat ride to end the day would be perfect. You can find more about this idealistic destination wedding here.

When Is The Cheapest Time To Get Married?

The time of year of your wedding is also another important factor. Without a doubt, January is the most affordable month. With November and April coming in closely behind. If you’re looking for a super affordable wedding, I would highly recommend booking within those months to get the most from your budget. And if you’re worried about the weather, I had an August wedding and it rained all day! So there really is no guarantee of good weather on the day.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with some of the most affordable destination weddings in the US. Some other places in the US you may want to consider are Salem (Massachusetts), Key West (Florida), and Aiken (South Carolina). These are just a few suggestions to take a look at – the US is full of affordable hot spots across the country.

If you can think of any other affordable destination wedding spots in the US, or you had your wedding in a cheaper part of the US, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own weddings. If price is the most important factor to you, be sure to shop around and visit as many venues as you can. You may be surprised at the gems you’ll find at an affordable price.

When To Do Bouquet Toss: All Things Bouquet Toss

Today, we’re going to be looking at when to do bouquet toss. When you think of weddings, there are many traditions or superstitions that usually come to mind. One of the most common traditions is the bouquet. But when should you throw it? Why do you throw it? Do you need to do this? We’ll be answering all things bouquet toss in this post!

Why Do We Toss The Bouquet?

This tradition has actually been around for centuries! But has changed over the years. Years ago, it was seen as good luck to even touch the bride! However, nowadays, catching the bouquet is seen as a sign that you will be the next woman to walk down the aisle. Usually, the bride will toss the wedding bouquet over her shoulder into a group of single women. Whoever catches the bouquet is seen as the chosen one!

When To Throw The Bouquet?

When it comes to throwing wedding flowers, there really is no etiquette to follow. However, it’s often done nearer the end of the day. Most of the time, the toss occurs in the evening. After the dinner, toasts, and dances, etc. If you do leave it later in the day, be wary of drunk, scrambling women in high-heeled shoes! You don’t want any accidents occurring on your wedding day.

It’s all down to personal choice when to throw the bouquet, but I recommend throwing the bouquet once the cake has been cut. It’s the perfect playful tradition to follow the cutting of the cake – and most people will already be up snapping photos.

Do You Use Your Wedding Bouquet?

If you are happy for your wedding bouquet to be thrown into the air and potentially receive some damage – then, by all means, use your wedding bouquet! However, some brides prefer to pay for a bouquet that’s only used is to be thrown. That way you can use more robust flowers and keep your bouquet in pristine condition. However, the choice is entirely yours! Florists will usually be able to make a tossing bouquet at a fraction of the price of your bridal bouquet.

How Long Is The Bouquet Toss?

You can make your bouquet toss as long or as short as you wish. If you want it over in seconds, that’s definitely an option. However, it’s good fun to choose a specific song, gather all your single friends on the dance floor and have a giggle with it. Your DJ can play your song choice (more on that later) as they make their way over and make it as exciting as possible!

It doesn’t usually last more than one song of your choice.

Songs To Play During Your Bouquet Toss

It’s becoming increasingly popular to play a song during your bouquet toss and Brides have a fantastic Best Wedding Bouquet Toss Songs post. Some of my favorites include:

Dear Future Husband – Meghan Trainor
Only Girl in the World – Rihanna
Single Ladies – Beyoncé
Wannabe – Spice Girls
Milkshake – Kelis
Like a Virgin – Madonna
Pour Some Sugar on Me – Def Leppard
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
It’s Raining Men – The Weather Girls
Hot Stuff – Donna Summer
Man! I Feel Like a Woman – Shania Twain

This is just a fraction of some of the brilliant ideas from their article. I think the song should be all about celebrating women and how fabulous we are! If you have any suggestions, please feel free to let me know in the comments below.

Do You Need To Throw Your Bouquet?

Absolutely not! If this isn’t something you feel comfortable doing – just skip this part of your day. I kept my artificial bouquet pristine and 5 years later, it still looks perfect! There are plenty of alternatives if this isn’t something you want to do. We’ll be taking a look at some alternatives later in this article.

Throwing The Garter

Another wedding tradition is throwing the garter. This one is for all the single men out there! So you may like to combine the two traditions. You can even get the winner of each tradition to have their own dance together after! This is all light-hearted fun, but make sure whoever takes part is comfortable doing this if you do choose to do the dance after.

Bouquet Toss Alternatives

There’s plenty of choices to choose from if the traditional bouquet toss isn’t for you. You may not have many single friends, or you may not want to single them out – so why not try one of these options instead?

Anniversary Dance. Choose a song and have the couples join you on the dancefloor. The DJ will then ask who’s been married longer than 5 years? 10 years? etc. Whoever is left on the dancefloor as being married the longest, gets the bouquet. It’s a super cute idea and completely different from the usual tradition.
Girls Only Dance. I did something similar to this at my own wedding. I chose “Single Ladies” by Beyoncé. However, I ended up missing the dance as I was getting changed into my evening outfit! But dancing with all of your girls is a great idea.
Split the Bouquet. In true Mean Girls-style, instead of breaking a tiara – break your bouquet! And give a flower to all the significant ladies in your life. That way the appreciation is for all, whether single, taken, or otherwise.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped to clear up when to do the bouquet toss and answered all the questions you could possibly have about throwing your wedding flowers, the best way to do it – and alternatives! There are no set rules around the bouquet toss, so just do whatever you feel most comfortable with. It’s your special day, after all.

Did you do a bouquet toss at your wedding? If so, I would love to know which song you chose and how you did it! If you’re happy to do so, please share your experiences below.

Funny Wedding Team Names: Top 50+

Today, we’re going to be looking at funny wedding team names. And not just funny wedding team names, but classy, friendship, food inspired – all kinds of team names! Let’s be honest, bridesmaids and groomsmen are traditional – but are they fun? Not really. Are they inclusive? Absolutely not. Do they show off how freaking incredible your nearest and dearest are? No way!

So why not use one of our other wedding team name ideas to make your wedding team unique and personal. Whether you’re looking for something laugh-out-loud, cheesy or cute – we’ll be covering them all! And don’t worry, whether you’re looking for gender inclusive, bridal party, or groomsmen names, we have something for everyone.

Gender Inclusive Wedding Team Names

It’s very outdated that men will only have male friends and women will only have female friends. When I got married, I had myself a Man of Honor and he was awesome! Not only that but there may be member(s) of your wedding party who do not identify as male or female – and you want them to feel included as part of your special day!

So if you’re like me, you need something inclusive and suitable for all. Here are some ideas to consider:

“I Do Crew” – this is completely gender neutral and can be used for the bride or groom’s nearest and dearest
“Pew Crew” – if your wedding is happening in a church, this is a fun option to refer to yourselves as
“Harbingers of Wedding Cheer” – this will be sure to leave a smile on everyone’s face who’s part of this gang!
“Bridesminions” – it scraps any gender and just makes you the bride’s minions instead – which is totally hilarious!
“Bridespeeps” – much like the Bridesminions options, it’s very open and doesn’t conform to any genders
“Commitment Crew” – I love this one! You’re all there for the same thing – to help your friends/family commit to their partner, so what better name than commitment crew?
“Bridesfolk/Groomfolk” – scrap the maids and men, and just replace it with folk!
“Friends of Honor” – if you’re just having friends as part of your bridal party/groomsmen, friends of honor is a great way to group them all together

Bridal Party Wedding Team Names

Bridesmaids/Bridal Party doesn’t seem a good enough name for all the work these wonderful people do to help with your wedding. From the bachelorette party to the bridal shower, to help you get ready on the big day – they’re there every step of the way! So how can you personalize your group name? Here’s a few ideas to get you started:

Tribesmaids
Bridal Par-Tea
Pizza Their Heart
You Can’t Sip With Us (who can resist a Mean Girls reference?)
Bride Squad
It’s Bride Time
Mermaid to be Friends
Nacho Average Bridal Party (this is my favorite! Who doesn’t love a food pun?!)
Friends for Wife
Dream Team
We’ll Be There for You (if the bride is a Friends lover, this is the perfect name!)
Bride and Boujee
Miss to Mrs. Crew
Whole Latte Love Here
Aisle Be There for You (wedding puns are the one!)
Bae Watch
Peachy Queens
Partners in Wine (you can choose partners in crime…but surely partners in wine are even better?!)
Fab Five
Fantastic Four
Three Musketeers
Doughnut Know What I’d Do Without You
My Support Bras (your friends should be supporting you like your bras, so this is a great funny one!)
Matrimony Homies (this is perfect for the bridal or groom party)
Champagne Campaign
Slay All Day (sassy and fabulous!)
We Can’t Keep Calm, She’s Getting Married
On Her Side
Bride Entourage
Wedding Sisterhood
Pillars of Strength
Bride’s Ride or Die’s

Groomsmen Wedding Team Names

Hey, this is definitely not just for the bride’s side of the wedding. The groom can definitely have his own team name too! Here are some of our favorite ideas to choose from:

Suited and Booted
Matrimony Homies
Broship
Broship Enterprise (perfect for any nerds in your life!)
Bachelor Brigade
Groom’s Gang
Goodfellas (is the groom a film fan? If so, this is a perfect choice!)
Team Groom
The Henchmen
The Bodyguards
Matrimony Matrix (any Matrix fans out there?)
Right-Hand Men
Groomsquad
Honor Guard
Groom’s Guild
Caught in a Bad Bromance (cheesy, bromantic, and funny)
Three Musketeers
Fantastic Four
Fab Five
Avengers Assemble (who doesn’t love superheroes?)

Other Team Names

If none of our options are taking your fancy, why not invent your own? There may be a specific nickname that you go by or something that’s particularly relevant to you and your friends. If so, try and incorporate that into the group name.

When you have your bachelor/bachelorette parties, you can even have personalized t-shirts and sashes with your name on them. Or maybe even on your wedding day, present each member of the party with a small gift that has the group name on it. It’s something that you and your nearest and dearest will be able to treasure forever.

If you’re looking for funny phrases or sayings to go alongside your team name, Party Conclusions has a great article which will leave you spoilt for choice!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with funny wedding team names and any other options you may be looking for when deciding on a name. Try to make it as memorable and unique as possible. That way you’ll all never be able to think of those words again without being reminded of a really special time in your life. It’s important to make everyone feel welcome and included in your tribe.

Did you have a unique wedding team name? Or are you choosing one of our favorites from this list? If so, please feel free to let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you! And if you have your own ideas, you may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own funny wedding team names!

What To Give For 30th Wedding Anniversary: Top Gift Ideas

Today, we’re going to be looking at what to give for 30th wedding anniversary. The 30 year anniversary is no doubt a huge milestone. Three whole decades together is definitely something worthy of celebrating, even if you don’t celebrate individual anniversaries usually. From paper to cotton to leather, there is a traditional gift theme alongside every year of marriage. But what is the 30th? Let’s take a look – and some gift ideas for him, and for her.

What Is The Traditional Gift For 30th Wedding Anniversary?

You’ve come a long way since first gifting each other paper gifts for your one-year anniversary! The traditional gift for a 30th wedding anniversary is the pearl. It symbolizes purity and wisdom – which after 30 years together, is likely something you both have a lot of!

What Is The Modern Gift For 30th Wedding Anniversary?

The modern gift for a 30th wedding anniversary is the diamond. It symbolizes strength and being able to endure anything. It also is a symbol of clarity – as nothing is clearer than a diamond!

Whether you opt for the modern or traditional gift theme, it’s certainly not going to be a cheap anniversary. But we have lots of ideas which we’ll be taking a look at later in this article; whether you’re on a tighter budget or you’re looking for something more extravagant.

Traditional Colors And Gemstones For 30th Wedding Anniversary

There are also traditional colors and gemstones that go alongside every anniversary. For the 30th wedding anniversary, the color green is symbolic. And if you’re looking for an alternative gemstone to a pearl or diamond, you could opt for jade too.

30th Anniversary Gift For Wife

Let’s start with looking at gift ideas for her. Women are more often than not, much easier to buy for! That’s always been the case for me, anyway. Here are some of our favorite ideas that you may like to consider.

Jewelry

The obvious choice is some form of jewelry. Whether it be a ring, a bracelet, earrings, or a necklace – there’s plenty to choose from in the way of pearls and diamonds. This CHAULRI Genuine Premium White Pearl Pendant Necklace 18K Gold Plated 925 Silver is a stunning choice, that will take her breath away.

Check Price on Amazon

It comes in at just under $150 and is the perfect gift for a 30th wedding anniversary. With a freshwater cultured white pearl, you’ll be dazzling everyone when you’re wearing this. As no two pearls are the same, this is a completely unique gift.

And there’s even a small diamond-like gem, so you’ll be combining modern and traditional. It’s important to note that the diamond is made from cubic zirconia, and not a real diamond.

It comes highly recommended on Amazon and it makes for a radiant gift for your significant other.

Watch

Another great idea is a watch. Whether you’re opting for modern or traditional, it’s super easy to find a watch with diamonds or pearls. I love this Anne Klein Women’s Premium Crystal-Accented Watch and Bangle Set. They’re faux pearls and diamonds, but the set is absolutely stunning, and is even water-resistant up to 100ft! The set is priced at around $70 – which I think is a steal for such a gorgeous set.

Check Price on Amazon

It’s described as comfortable, consistent, and high quality – what more could you possibly ask for from a gift?

There are plenty of other gifts you could opt for. The sweet pea is the flower of the 30th wedding anniversary, so a beautiful bouquet with sweet peas would be lovely. And very meaningful too!

30th Anniversary Gift for Husband

Men are notoriously harder to buy for – especially when needing to incorporate a theme. However, there are a few brilliant ideas you may like to gift your husband. Let’s take a look at some gift ideas for him.

Cufflinks

Not only are cufflinks a nod to your wedding day, but incorporating pearls within the cufflinks, means that they’re perfect as a 30th wedding anniversary gift. This Pearlina White Pearl Cuff links Genuine Freshwater Cultured Pearls come in a gorgeous gift box and are solid stainless steel. This means that they’ll not discolor or rust – they may still be in good shape for the next 30 years of your marriage!

Check Price on Amazon

These are just $39.99 – which makes for a great affordable gift. Plus they come highly recommended, with many 5 star reviews!

Knife

This may seem like an odd choice – but who knew that you could get a Mother of Pearl knife? Perfect if you have a hunter or avid camper in your life. This idea is quite pricey, but the ALSTIN Damascus Steel Mother of Pearl Folding Pocket Knife is a stunning piece. It comes presented in a leather box and is a really unique gift that will leave a lasting impression on your husband.

Check Price on Amazon

The price for this piece is $97, but for the craftsmanship and presentation – I think it’s a fairly reasonable price. And one that will come to good use! It’s 6.9 inches and there’s even a mini one to match which is 5.5 inches if you were looking for the set.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for something more sentimental, for him or for her, there are some gorgeous blankets, glasses, mugs, jewelry boxes, trinket dishes over on Amazon that comes with personalization and 30th wedding anniversary available on them. The world is your oyster – which is quite fitting, considering the 30th wedding anniversary is a pearl!

I hope this article has helped to give you a few ideas of what to give for 30th wedding anniversary. Your gift can be as small or large as you wish. Even a homemade card decorated with pearls would be a touching gift – you don’t need to be spending too much money at all!

What did you get your partner for your 30th wedding anniversary? I would love to hear your answers in the comments below. You may be helping out future couples with gift ideas!

How To Attach A Boutonniere – Step By Step Guide

Today, we’re going to be looking at how to attach a boutonniere. It may be something you’re nervous about, or maybe something you have no idea how to do! After all, we only ever use them on special occasions, so it may not be something you’re familiar with. Don’t worry, we’ll be taking you through each step with a step-by-step guide to make it easy as possible for you. Attaching a boutonniere to a lapel or a shirt is done in slightly different ways – and we’ll be covering them both.

What Is A Boutonniere?

More often that not, the male members of the wedding party should be wearing a boutonniere. A boutonniere is a spray of flowers that you wear in your buttonhole or your lapel. It can be a single flower, a bud, or something more extravagant. They are typically worn at weddings or formal dances, such as a prom.

What Side Does A Boutonniere Go On?

When wearing a boutonniere for a wedding, it should always be worn on the left. More often than not, this is where the lapel buttonhole is. There are a lot of theories around why this is the case but it’s most likely because of this. In men’s clothing, the buttonholes are always on the left. And on women’s clothing, the buttonholes are always on the right. It’s very uncommon for clothing to be any other way.

So if you’re a male, be sure to pin the boutonniere to the left. And if you’re a female, be sure to pin the boutonniere to the right.

How To Pin A Boutonniere

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide – you’ve come to the right place! We’ll be taking you through how to pin a boutonniere to a lapel and to a shirt. Let’s take a look.

Lapel Method

Here’s how to attach a pin to the lapel.

Positioning. As seen earlier, it should always be on the left side for a male. Position the flower so it’s facing outwards on the left lapel. The flower should be facing you and it should lay in the center of the lapel. Find a position that works, and is comfortable for you. After all – you’ll be wearing it all day!
The Pin Begins. Firmly hold the boutonniere in place, lift the lapel, and pin upwards. Be sure it’s fully through the lapel.
Keep Pinning. While still holding your pin, pin through the widest part of the stem of the boutonniere. Insert at a slight diagonal angle. This helps to keep it in place.
Push Back. The other end of the pin should then come back through the other side of the lapel. When you lift the lapel, you should see both sides of the pin – and it should be at that slight diagonal angle.
Does it Need Another Pin? Check how secure it feels. If it doesn’t feel as secure as you’d like, or the boutonniere is particularly large – add another pin the same way you added the first.
Your boutonniere is ready for your big day!

If you prefer to do things visually, Floating Leaf Studios have a great video on How to Pin a Boutonniere.

Shirt Method

Putting a boutonniere on a shirt can be slightly trickier and more fiddly. However, it’s perfectly doable. Let’s see how to attach a boutonniere to a shirt.

Pin Positioning. Finding the right spot is a bit trickier without the help of a lapel. It should be just above your heart, and ideally, around the place, the lapel would usually be.
Pinch and Pin. Once you’ve found the right spot, pinch a piece of the fabric between two fingers and insert the pin right to left. Be sure that it goes into the fabric, and then out the other side.
Repeat. Pinch another piece of the fabric for the pin to go through and slide it in. When it’s inserted both times, there should be a gap wide enough for the end of the boutonniere to fit snugly in to.
Position the Boutonniere. Insert the stem of the boutonniere into the gap you’ve made with the pin. It acts as a little pouch for your boutonniere.
Secure. Check that the boutonniere is secure and gently press around the boutonniere to straighten out any marks that may have been made when attaching it.
Your boutonniere is ready for your big day!

This will likely leave a small hole in your shirt. So be prepared for that!

How To Put On A Boutonniere: Buttonhole Style

An easier way to do this is if your suit already has a buttonhole in your lapel. If it does, it makes the job a whole lot easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide if you’re lucky enough to have one!

Place the stem through the buttonhole. There is often a piece of string behind the lapel to tuck the stem into and keep it secure.
Tuck the stem into the string behind the lapel.
Position the flower in the way you want it to look.
Your boutonniere is ready for your big day!

That way is much easier, right?!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to learn how to attach a boutonniere. It may seem tricky at first, but if you practice a few times before the wedding, you’ll figure it out in no time. Or ask a friend or family member to help if you’re still not feeling confident.

Boutonnieres look beautiful and really brighten up any wedding suit or shirt. And they make a statement that this is a special occasion. And what occasion is more special than a wedding?

Do you have an easier way to attach a boutonniere? Did you have boutonnieres at your wedding? If so, please feel free to let me know any answers to either of these questions in the comments below. I love reading through your responses.

Wedding Announcements After Eloping: A Guide On How To

Today, we’re going to be looking at wedding announcements after eloping, and the best way to go about it. Eloping is far more common than you might think! Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony, or you simply don’t want others at your wedding – it’s entirely your choice.

But making an announcement about your elopement may be something you’re worried about. After all, most people in life love a wedding! It’s not something that your family and friends may agree with, but here are some ideas on how to do it – and tips and tricks to make it as fun (and easy!) as possible.

How To Announce Elopement

There are no guidelines or etiquette on when or how you should announce your elopement, but here are some things to think about when making your decision as newlyweds.

Don’t Rush It. You’ve likely chosen to elope as an intimate experience with your partner. If this is something you want to keep between yourselves for a day, a week, even a year – that’s entirely down to you. So only share your news when you feel completely ready.
You Can Keep It Casual. Society will tell you that you need to make a huge deal about your new marriage, but if you don’t want to – you don’t have to! If you want to invite your parents around and tell them around takeout and a bottle of wine, go for it! It doesn’t have to be an extravagant announcement.
Announce via Post. Most couples like to send an announcement to their nearest and dearest via mail. Including a photo from your wedding is a super cute idea, and it’s also a great time to send to invite guests to your reception if you choose to have one.
Announce on Social Media. A simple Instagram post or Facebook status will be enough for everyone else in your life. You can even update your relationship status to “married” – that will certainly get the message across!

Elopement Announcement Ideas

One of the most common ways to announce is on social media. You can choose to do this in a range of ways – let’s take a look at some of our favorites.

Signs

Buying a personalized sign is one of the cutest ways to announce (in my opinion), and it gets the message across clearly to everyone in your life. You can use any of the following phrases – just choose whichever suits you most as a couple. Whether you’re casual, romantic, or wanting something extravagant, here are a few ideas:

“We Do, We Did, We Eloped”. There are lots of signs like this, that come with personalized names and dates. It really does get straight to the point!
A Romantic Quote. Choose your favorite quote from a rom-com or book and put it on a chalkboard. Take a photo with it in your wedding outfits. It’s a super cute, romantic gesture.
“We Eloped! #NotPregnant”. If your nearest and dearest suspect that something is happening, a lighthearted way of doing it is with a sign with those words. It will leave a smile on everyone’s face.
“Nothing Fancy, Just Love”. This is a simple way to show your family and friends that you weren’t looking for anything fancy at your wedding – you simply just wanted to love one another. It’s a gorgeous way of sharing your news.
Scrabble Tiles. If I had eloped, this would be my choice. I’m a huge writer and bookworm. So I’d spell out “We Eloped” in scrabble tiles, with our wedding rings in the backdrop. It’s a super adorable idea.
“Just Married” banner. Is it any clearer than this? A way to show off your rings, holding up a banner to tell everyone the news!
“Mr. and Mrs. cards”. Whether you’re Mr. and Mr., Mr. and Mrs., or Mrs. and Mrs., holding up cards with your new title will make it pretty clear that you’re now newlyweds!

Post

You may be looking for wording to use on your announcements or invitations to your upcoming reception and there are lots of ways to do this. The best way to grab everyone’s attention is to use a photo from your wedding, particularly if it was a formal elopement! However, if you want to keep your photos private, you can always use big font to celebrate the news.

Some wording you may like to use on your announcements are:

“Happily Ever After…Party”. It’s the perfect way to showcase that your wedding has taken place, but the after-party (or reception) is now happening.
“We Do. We Did. Eloped”. This works for a sign, or on an announcement.
“Nothing Fancy, Just Love”. Another quote that works well for both. This is a good quote to use alongside a wedding photo. Simple but stunning.
“We Eloped”. It can be a message as simple as that, with the date underneath.
“You’re Not Invited”. This is great for a lighthearted, funny announcement. It’s a good way to surprise your family and friends – and will certainly get a laugh out of everyone that receives one!
“We Tied the Knot”. You can use this on its own, or add “Let’s Celebrate!” afterwards if you’re having a reception.

You can find more wording and examples for announcements here.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you become more comfortable with wedding announcements after eloping and ways you can share your news on your own terms. Whether you decide to make a big announcement or keep it more private – it’s entirely up to you. And you should only do what you feel comfortable with. Society will tell you that you need to share your news with the world, and you absolutely don’t!

Did you elope? Or are you planning too? I would love to know how you made your announcement to your friends and family. If you did, please feel free to let me know any ideas or suggestions in the comments below.

Cost Of Wedding Cupcakes For 100 Guests: How Much?

Today, we’re going to be looking at the cost of wedding cupcakes for 100 guests. Cupcakes are becoming increasingly popular at weddings. Whether you’re having cupcakes as a replacement for a wedding cake, or you’re serving cupcakes in the evening as an extra dessert – they’re a great dessert.

Most people like cupcakes and ordering a few different flavors is the perfect way to cater to as many guests as possible. But how many do you need? How much should you be setting aside from your budget? Let’s take a look.

Wedding Cupcakes Price – How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of cupcakes entirely depends on the style and flavor of your cupcakes of choice. On average, if you’re looking at mini cupcakes, it will be around $1-$2 per cupcake. And for standard-size cupcakes, it can be anywhere between $2-$4 per cupcake.

If you opt for a standard vanilla cupcake with frosting and no decoration, you’ll be looking at the lower end. However, if you’re looking for a vegan red velvet cupcake with edible glitter and decoration – of course, it’s going to cost more.

It’s important to note that when ordering in bulk, some bakeries will offer a discount if you order over a certain amount. That discount can range anywhere from 5% too much higher – so it’s definitely worth asking. The price will also depend on the bakery you order from. If it’s a well-established bakery, expect to pay more.

TOP TIP: When ordering your cupcakes from a bakery, try to avoid telling them it’s for a wedding. Once you mention the word “wedding”, the price tag is often much higher than if you tell them you’re ordering for another occasion, like a birthday.

How Many Cupcakes For A Wedding?

Again, the answer to this all depends on how many guests you’re having. And you’ll also need to take into account if you’re having any other desserts, how many flavors you’re having, and what time of day you’re choosing to serve them. All of these factors will affect how many cupcakes you will need.

On average, it’s predicted that you’ll need 1.5 standard-size cupcakes per guest or 3 mini cupcakes per guest. However, if your budget simply can not allow for that, one cupcake per guest (plus a few spares) and 2 mini cupcakes per guest are certainly doable. Just don’t expect any leftovers at the end of the night!

Calculate This has an amazing Cupcake Calculator, which enables you to enter how many guests you’re having, how many cupcake flavors, and if you’re having any other desserts. It then predicts a figure based on your answers. For example, 1 flavor, for 100 guests, with no other desserts – they predict you’ll need 150 standard size cupcakes. However, if you’re having more than 1 flavor, for 100 guests, with no other desserts – they predict you’ll need 200 standard-size cupcakes.

Do I Need More Than One Flavor?

It’s advised that you have more than one flavor, in fact – the general advice is to have 3! But it’s a personal choice and if you only want to have one flavor, that’s also okay.

An important note to bear in mind is dietary restrictions. It may be best to have a gluten-free/vegan cupcake option available if you have any guests with those restrictions. I’m gluten-free myself and I like to enjoy cupcakes too!

TOP TIP: If you can not afford more than one flavor, have a few different colors of frosting to make it appear as though the cupcakes aren’t the same.

How Far In Advance Shall I Book My Cupcakes?

I can not stress enough that bakeries fill up early! Especially for items like cupcakes. And with the volume you’ll likely be ordering, the more notice you can give, the better. It’s recommended that you start your research at least 6 months prior to the wedding and secure them with a deposit or contract with at least 4 months to go. However, if you’re able to lock in your vendor earlier, go for it! Most couples also like to have a tasting session before they make any final decisions, which most bakeries should offer.

How Far In Advance Can You Make Cupcakes?

If you’re making your own cupcakes, you won’t have the worry of having to book! And the wedding cupcake pricing will definitely be much lower if you’re making it themselves. However, you will still need to use the cupcake calculator to ensure you’re making enough.

Betty Crocker has a great timeline if you’re making your own wedding cupcakes! Her countdown looks similar to this:

3 Months Prior. Start testing recipes. Practice at least a few times and taste the results. Once you’re happy with the recipe, make sure you test how they taste after being frozen, and then thawed.
1 Week Prior. Bake the cupcakes. Cool, wrap, and place them in the freezer, ready for the big day.
2 Days Prior. Take them out of the freezer and leave them to thaw.
1 Day Prior. Frost and decorate in any way you choose.
The Big Day! Transport, display and serve to your guests.

You’re probably going to need some help with every step of the way if you’re making 100 plus cupcakes, so don’t be afraid to ask for support from your family and friends!

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped with the cost of wedding cupcakes for 100 guests and answered any other questions you may have about wedding cupcakes and their pricing. If you’re already having a wedding cake or other desserts, it’s not expected to have wedding cupcakes at all, so there is no pressure to have them – but they do make a tasty treat; especially in the evening.

Did you have cupcakes at your wedding? Or do you plan to? If you’re happy to share prices, please let me know in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own cupcakes. Sharing is caring!

Catholic Church Wedding Costs: How Much?

Today we’re going to be looking at Catholic Church wedding costs and how much a church wedding will be likely to set you back. There are quite a few factors to bear in mind when it comes to the cost of a wedding and we’ll be covering them all.

What Is A Catholic Church Wedding?

A Catholic Church wedding is just like any other marriage but is often known as holy matrimony. At least one member of the couple should be a Catholic Christian. And the wedding should be held in the parish of either the bride or the groom. Before a Catholic Church approves your wedding, you’ll often need to submit specific documents, partake in activities more often at the church and have regular meetings. Marriage preparation can take anywhere from 6 months to one year.

How Much Do Churches Charge For Weddings?

It’s a well-known fact that weddings are expensive. Between the food, the drinks, the dress, the flowers – the prices rack up quickly. And many couples spend thousands on their wedding. However, if you or your partner (or both) are religious and marrying somewhere important to your faith is an option for you both – the cost will often be much lower.

The cost of a church wedding will depend on many factors. The main factors you’ll need to consider are:

The size of the church
The location of the church
The church you wish to get married in

These factors will mean a significant difference in the price. Most churches consider the price a donation, and some may not even specify a donation price. But the average cost you’ll be looking to pay in the US is anywhere between a few hundred dollars, to $1000. However, these prices are not firm and it will be different for every church. If you have a church in mind, it may be best to ask.

Church Of England Weddings

Church of England weddings are different and can be much more expensive. For example, in the UK, the minimum fee in 2021 is £495, providing you marry in your home parish. This does not take into account additional fees such as heating, an organist, bell ringers, flowers, etc. So be sure to keep this in mind if you’re planning a Church of England wedding. You can find out more about Your Church Wedding here.

How Much To Donate To Catholic Church For Wedding?

In theory, a Catholic Church wedding costs nothing. The sacrament of marriage is free and has no price tag. However, a donation should be made if you’re having a Catholic Church wedding. Your church may already have a set price they share with you, or they may leave the donation cost down to you. If you grew up in the church, the price is likely to be much less than if you’re not a member.

The average price if you grew up in the church is around $200. And the average price for non-members can be anywhere between $400-$2000! But again, this all comes down to the church, where it’s located, and how many guests you’re having. It’s best to ask if you’re unsure. If the donation is left for you to choose from, I would recommend following the average guidelines above.

Additional Costs For Catholic Church Weddings

It’s important to note that the donation cost is just for the church itself and the ceremony. But there are many additional costs that the donation will not cover and you need to bear these in mind; as these can really take a lot out of your wedding budget!

Some additional costs to bear in mind are:

Organists/Musicians. Some Catholic Churches may offer this as part of your wedding package. However, more often than not, it’s an additional fee. If you ask your church, they’ll likely have some recommendations for you. If the organists/musicians are extra, the average price is around $300-$900. This will all depend on their experience and how many you’re looking for.
Bells. Most couples like the church bells to announce their wedding. However, this is not often free! And can set you back anywhere between $100-$250!
Décor. While some churches may already be perfect as they are, at others you may wish to decorate yourself. This is something you organize yourself. However, check everything with your church before you make any decisions. This will include items such as flowers for the pew, signage, candles, etc. The Bridal Association of America predicts it will cost around $391 for these additional extras.
Deposit. This may not be at every church, but sometimes you may be asked to pay a small deposit. This will be refunded after the wedding but is taken in case any damage takes place throughout the time that you’re there. On average, this may be around $200.
Flowers. Of course, the church will not provide any flowers. So if you’d like flowers down the aisle or any kind of decoration which involves flowers – this will often take out a large chunk of your budget. Particularly fresh flowers.

There may be other additional costs, depending on what you’re having at your wedding. But these are all things you can discuss with your church once you’ve set your heart on a location.

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you to become more familiar with Catholic Church wedding costs and what is seen as an appropriate donation to give if you’re unsure. A church wedding cost will vary massively depending on the size and location – and also if it’s the church you’ve grown up in. The best course of action is to book a meeting with your church and discuss everything that you’re unsure of.

Did you have your wedding in a Catholic Church? If you’re comfortable sharing your donation or how much you paid, please feel free to let us know in the comments below. You may be helping out future brides and grooms with their own weddings.

Cowboy Wedding Attire For Guests: What To Wear

Today, we’re going to be looking at cowboy wedding attire guests and the do’s and don’ts at a western wedding. Country weddings are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in the US. When you’re invited as a wedding guest, you may be unsure on what’s the best outfit to wear. And although western weddings often sound dreamy and romantic, the practical side as a guest can be difficult to work an outfit around. Let’s take a look at some top tips and outfit choices on what to wear to a western wedding.

What To Wear To A Country Wedding?

Whether you’re a male or female, you may be confused as to what to wear – but don’t worry! It doesn’t need to be as difficult as you may think. The first thing to bear in mind: is there a dress code? Sometimes on invitations, a dress code is provided. It’s seen as good wedding etiquette to follow any guidelines you’re given around your outfit. Whether that be color, how formal, etc. If there is a dress code, you should follow it.

However, if there’s no dress code – try to base your outfit around the venue and what type of guest you are. Ask yourself these questions:

Are you a close relative of the bride/groom? If so, you may want to dress a little more formally than you usually would.
Are you an evening or day guest? Evening guests often choose far more casual outfits. As day guests will be in many of the photographs, you should take care choosing your outfit.
Where is the wedding taking place? There’s more than likely going to be fields around at a western wedding – heels are a no-go! Opt for wedges or cowboy boots. You don’t want to be sinking into the field with your heels. Depending on how casual the wedding is, you could even wear wellie boots.

Female Wedding Guest Attire For Cowboy Wedding

Here are some top tips and ideas for you to wear if you’re a female attending a western wedding as a guest.

Choose an outfit such as a dress or a jumpsuit – but make sure, it doesn’t touch the ground. It’s likely to be muddy and you don’t want grass stains on your outfit. The ideal length is a few inches from the ground.
Try to avoid clutch bags – it’s best to have your hands free at a western wedding. Whether it be for hitting away bugs or sipping on prosecco, you’ll want your hands visibly available.
If you’re wearing cowboy boots (which lots of female guests do!), make sure your dress is high enough to show off your awesome boots.
Don’t be afraid to showcase your inner cowgirl. Wear a cowgirl hat. Wear cowboy boots. Embrace the wedding wholeheartedly.

Male Wedding Guest Attire For Cowboy Wedding

Male attire is usually much easier. But much like female attire, it all depends on how casual the wedding is. If the wedding is extremely relaxed, you may even be able to wear a shirt, jeans, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat. However, if it’s a more formal wedding, you can still stick to the cowboy hat, boots, and jeans – but a suit jacket and tie may work best. If you’re unsure about an outfit, the best thing to do is ask the bride or groom.

Dresses To Wear With Cowboy Boots To A Wedding

You may be wanting to wear cowboy boots. But you might be unsure of what dresses look best paired with cowboy boots. Here’s some tips to bear in mind when choosing a dress to go with your cowboy boots:

Short Hem Dresses. Usually, mid-thigh to knee length are the best choices. This is because you can showcase your gorgeous cowboy boots!
Dresses that are longer at the back, but shorter at the front are perfect. They look more formal than a standard shorter dress, but your boots will still be visible.
If you want a dress length down to the floor, perhaps opt for a dress with a slit. This is a great way to still show off your boots to other guests.

There are some lovely dresses on Amazon, that will go perfectly with cowboy boots. Here are some of my favorites.

Example Dresses

1 . The MISSMAY Women’s Vintage Swing Dress brings together country and formal. It’s elegant but still will give off a country vibe when paired with boots. The dress comes in a huge selection of colors, to suit any color scheme, and sizes range from XS to XXL. Prices vary between £45 – £145, depending on the color and size you’re looking for. It’s off the shoulder, which I always think is a great choice for a wedding. And is super breathable so you can dance the night away in the evening.

Check price on Amazon

2 . The Azalosie Wrap Maxi Dress is flowy, airy, and will bring a splash of color to any wedding you attend. It’s a few inches from the floor but also has a high split, which means your boots will still be seen. This dress is breathable, comfortable and will work perfectly for summer country weddings. The sizes start at XS to 3XL and the price tag is £47. It comes in a range of colors – but don’t be afraid to go bold!

This is just a few ideas to give you some inspiration for outfits you might like to wear.

Check price on Amazon

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you become more familiar with cowboy wedding attire for guests and given you some ideas. If you choose an outfit and you’re unsure whether it’s suitable, be sure to ask the happy couple. They’ll more than likely be happy to help with any questions you have. And make sure that you’re comfortable!

Have you attended a western wedding recently? If so, what outfit did you wear? I would love to know! So please feel free to leave any answers in the comments below.